26,560 people working in the Advertising sub-sector (as their main paid occupation). It’s a profitable industry, contributing £1.46bn (or 0.23%) of GVA to the UK economy. 44% of businesses have a turnover of £1m or more, and 65% of businesses employ 20 or more people. Productivity levels – calculated as GVA per head – are running at £54,820.

There are 12,300 businesses in the sub-sector; 65% employ more than 20 people.

The business model in advertising is changing – non-traditional areas of marketing are growing, and through the development of digital technology, more traditional areas of operation are experiencing either expansion, or decline.

The internet is continuing to exhibit great opportunities and challenges, and tapping into this sector has generally been seen as a success.

Sources: Skills Needs Assessment 2007 and Gap Analysis and Market Testing 2007

Click here for information on entry routes and progression in the sub-sector.